Cat moves are generally less expensive than dog moves — fewer vet visits, no CIV or Leishmania or Brucella tests — but the core costs (RNATT, import permit, freight, quarantine) are the same. Here is a complete breakdown.
The honest total
Moving a cat from the US to Australia typically costs between USD $3,000 and $7,000, with most moves landing in the $4,000-5,000 range. The main variable is freight cost, which depends heavily on crate size.
Cost by category
Veterinary fees
For cats, the vet visit list is shorter than for dogs. You'll need: rabies vaccination, identity check visits (two separate USDA-accredited vets if pursuing 10-day quarantine), RNATT blood draw, two parasite treatment visits, and a final health exam. Budget USD $300-800 depending on your location and vet rates.
RNATT laboratory fee
Kansas State University or Auburn University. Approximately USD $150-300 per test.
USDA endorsement fees
USDA charges per endorsement submitted through VEHCS. For a cat with identity verification, the main endorsements are the identity declaration and the final health certificate. Budget approximately USD $75-150 total. Confirm the current USDA APHIS fee schedule before applying.
DAFF import permit
Approximately AUD $603 for a single animal (AUD $130 lodgement + AUD $473 initial assessment). Fees reviewed annually — confirm at agriculture.gov.au before applying.
Quarantine at Mickleham
10-day stay: reservation AUD $269, importation charge AUD $1,078, accommodation AUD $530 — total approximately AUD $1,877. A 30-day stay costs approximately AUD $2,937 in importation and accommodation fees. Identity verification is the single most cost-effective step in the process.
Qantas Freight
Cats travel on Qantas Freight from Los Angeles. Freight cost is typically lower for cats than for large dogs due to smaller crate dimensions. Budget USD $800-2,000 depending on crate size and weight.
Agent fee
Full-service pet transport agents typically charge USD $1,000-3,000 for cat moves. Some include the Qantas freight booking in their fee; others charge it separately. Clarify before engaging.
Bringbabka
USD $29. One-time.
Comparing cat vs dog costs
The main savings for cat owners versus dog owners:
- No CIV vaccination visits (typically USD $100-200 per visit, two visits for a primary course)
- No Leishmania test (USD $60-150)
- No Brucella test (USD $50-100)
- No Leptospira test or vaccination (USD $50-100)
- Smaller crate typically means lower freight cost
Process cost savings often amount to USD $500-1,000 compared to a dog move.
Regulations and fees change. Always verify current costs directly with DAFF, USDA, and your chosen laboratory before budgeting.